Abstract
This document summarizes a faculty roundtable on sabbatical planning and experiences. It reflects the experiences, perspectives, and suggestions shared by individual faculty panelists and should not be interpreted as official university guidance or policy.
The report highlights five areas discussed during the roundtable:
- Motivations and Planning Lead Time: Why faculty chose to take sabbaticals, how sabbaticals differ from course releases or buyouts, and why planning one to two years in advance can be beneficial.
- Duration and Financial Considerations: Choosing between one-and two-semester sabbaticals, considering the financial implications of each option, and exploring external funding and both local and international opportunities.
- Developing a Strong Proposal: Aligning proposed activities with institutional priorities, establishing a feasible scope and timeline, and writing for reviewers outside one's discipline.
- Contingency and Alternative Plans: Preparing for funding delays or other unexpected changes, considering Difference-in-Pay (DIP) leave or resubmission when appropriate, and adapting plans when circumstances change.
- Departmental Coordination: Planning for teaching and service coverage, particularly in small or specialized departments, considering issues specific to department chairs, and working collaboratively with colleagues.
Panelists: Jamie Kneitel (Biological Sciences & Environmental Studies), Catheryn Koss (Gerontology), June Hee Kwon (Asian Studies), Ravin Pan (Teaching Credentials), and Joseph Taylor (Information Systems & Business Analytics)
Organizer and moderator: Young-Im Lee (Political Science, Faculty Success Fellow)
The roundtable was sponsored by the Offices of Research, Innovation, and Economic Development (ORIED). The organizer thanks Bill DeGraffenreid (Associate Vice President of ORIED), Vanessa Alejos, Jennifer Bannister, and Barbara Vong for their administrative and logistical support.